If black is a safety color for women, then white is the epitome of a fashion "risk," because well-fitting white pants can be as hard to find as a bathing suit that makes you feel confident on the beach. But, like swimsuits, there is a white-pant style, cut and fabric that works best for your body type.

The experts have plenty of tips for buying — and wearing — the summer staple.

Size up: Since white pants/jeans can sometimes be a little unforgiving, don't be afraid to go up a size.

Pay attention to fabric: Thicker is better. A great way to test: When you try on the pants/jeans, if you can see the pockets through the fabric, you know they may be a bit too sheer.

Lean legs: A slim, straight leg is the most flattering.

The stitching: Look for pants/jeans with white stitching, for a more polished look.

What lurks beneath: Wear nude-colored underpinnings.

You know, white-white: Make sure your white is more of a pure white. White jeans/pants can look dingy fast if the white has a yellow tone to it.

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Doing it in denim: If you prefer jeans to pants, make sure they have back pockets. It will make the jeans more flattering.

Body shape: White is not always easy to wear on the bottom, but can be if you buy the right style for your figure. Fuller figure/rounded hips look best in a higher rise with a slit back pocket, rather than a patch pocket. Narrower hips look best in a slightly lower rise and can choose a back patch pocket or slit pocket.

Skip the pleats: A flat front, as opposed to a pleated, is most flattering for most body types.

The length: Crop/capri or full length? If it's a casual pant you seek, and you like your ankles, go for the capri. Wear them with a ballet flat or kitten heel to complete the summer look.

Go linen: A casual, loose linen drawstring pant with patch pockets may be perfect for the beach or supermarket on a hot day. Or it may be a lined silk crepe de chine you want for a dressier evening look. Know your needs before you start to shop.

Laundry list: Are they washable? If you intend on wearing them a lot, look for a pair that is washable without a lining.

Color on top: The thing about white on the bottom is anything goes with it on top. White on white is gorgeous in the summer, but color works, too. Try a narrow white bottom with a colorful, full top that covers your rear end. It can work for almost all figures and balance proportion.